The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to capitalize on the burgeoning aviation sector to boost economic and social development across the continent. While African airlines are projected to achieve their second consecutive year of collective profit in 2024, IATA highlights the need to address challenges such as infrastructure deficiencies, high costs, and blocked funds to fully realize the sector’s potential.
Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new service to Warsaw, Poland, adding another destination to its growing network and enhancing connectivity between Africa and Central Europe. The four-times-weekly flight, which includes a stop in Athens, Greece, reflects the airline’s commitment to providing seamless travel experiences and promoting cultural exchange between regions.
Mauritania held a presidential election on Saturday, with incumbent President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani seeking a second term. The election saw a relatively peaceful atmosphere despite opposition claims of a ‘one-sided’ campaign and concerns about fraud. The president, a former security chief, has promised a continued focus on fighting poverty and supporting young people, and the country is expected to see economic growth fueled by the launch of gas production.
Mauritania holds presidential elections on Saturday, with incumbent Mohamed Ould Ghazouani facing six challengers. Ghazouani, who has promised to accelerate economic growth fueled by the country’s vast natural resources, is widely expected to win a second term due to the ruling party’s dominance. Key issues for voters include corruption, youth unemployment, and managing Islamist threats. While Ghazouani’s opponents challenge his human rights record and focus on social issues, the incumbent is seen as likely to secure victory.
In N’Djamena, Chad, a centuries-old hair ritual using Chebe seeds is experiencing a resurgence as people seek natural alternatives to chemical hair products. The Chebe treatment, involving a paste of Chebe seeds, cherry seeds, and cloves, is believed to promote hair growth and luster. While the process is time-consuming, it is gaining popularity across Africa and beyond, reflecting a global trend toward natural hair care.
Lagos Business School (LBS) has appointed Jameel Verjee, founder and CEO of CityBlue Hotels, to its advisory board for the LBS Hospitality Initiative. This partnership aims to foster the growth of Nigeria and Africa’s hospitality sector by leveraging CityBlue’s expertise and LBS’s educational resources to develop executive leadership and strengthen ESG strategies across the continent.
Airbus has identified key unserved air routes in Africa, highlighting cities like Lagos, Cape Town, and Nairobi, with the potential to boost connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and increase airline revenue. The analysis also forecasts strong growth in African air traffic, demanding new aircraft and a skilled workforce.
Africa is experiencing a significant outflow of both high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and precious commodities like gold, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerging as a prime destination. This trend is driven by a complex interplay of socio-economic and political factors in Africa, including instability, tax burdens, and the allure of Dubai’s business opportunities and tax haven status. The departure of millionaires and the smuggling of gold have severe consequences for African economies, undermining stability and perpetuating economic hardship.
Kenya Airways has relaunched direct flights between Nairobi and Maputo, offering three weekly flights. This expansion is part of the airline’s strategy to improve intra-African connectivity, driving economic growth and enhancing trading opportunities across the continent.
Africa Travellers, an African-owned travel company, has been successfully connecting African Americans with their ancestral roots for three years, organizing journeys for over 200 people annually. The company’s mission is to showcase Africa in its truest form, enabling travelers to rediscover their roots through immersive cultural experiences. Africa Travellers offers flexible payment plans to make these transformative trips accessible to many and expertly curated tours, including a 10-day, 9-night journey through Ghana and a 12-day, 11-night tour of Senegal and Gambia. The company’s highly trained and knowledgeable personnel provide unparalleled African tours and ensure that clients leave with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the continent.
